(Walt BJ) wrote in
om:

WTF, over. I can't think of an outstanding Brit aircraft that you
couldn't match with a US aircraft at least it's equal - except for the
Harrier. And who makes the AV8B? The Buccaneer can't do anything the
F111 couldn't beat. The Tornado? Which one? Air to ground or air
defense? What can either one do that can't be done equally well with
an F15C or F15E? As for the Lightning - it could climb like hell but
in 40 minutes you better be on the ground. The F106 was a much more
capable interceptor with a much better radar/IR system and all kinds
of cute ECCM mods. For that matter, the F4 was a better interceptor,
too.
The F8 Crusader was a mean one also. And in 1967 I got to fly the
Dash19 engined F104A - how does 90 seconds from brake release to 45000
compare to the Lightning, considering I still had an hour's fuel left,
and could have gone on out to M2.0 and only used 1000 pounds doing it
while covering 27 miles over the ground?
Walt BJ

Right on Walt.

Admittedly, I did indeed intend to inflame. I have to admit how much
fun it was to read the follow up postings... England (UK) is a nice
little place, and they designed unusual aircraft that certainly were
unique in their day.

Pick up any English based book, magazine or web site (official or
commercial), and you will find that their description and comparison of
our aircraft is laughable, yet it is written with absolute seriousness.
Worse still are the endless scenarios written comparing 'theirs' against
'ours.' Jesus, I thought we were on the same team.

Case in point: The Panavia Tornado IDS.

To compare a Tornado IDS against an F-15C defies belief.
There is no comparison. I'd rather place my bet on an F-16C (yes, an F-
16) or an F/A-18.
The truth of the matter is, the Tornado is woefully inadequate--except
for the excellent Texas Instruments radar set. It is the product of
design by committee. Akin to having too many cooks in the kitchen: great
recipe, great ingredients--but the wrong 'pan' was used. AAAHH!

In doubt? Please dispute the following:
==It is under-powered.
==It is overweight.
==It is under-winged (too little wing area). By the way, don't give the
counter argument "...that the wing confers low gust response, improving
crew comfort and minimizing fatigue..."
==It maneuvers like a pig.

Combat record: Dismal. Gulf War I. Losses incurred attacking third
world air base defended by aging Soviet Air Defense systems.

Well, at least you got on board with the JSF.
Cheers! Your Pal,
Chuck